Sheep introduced at nature reserve to help graze the land
in Seaford

Seaford Head sheep

Published:10:00Saturday 20 December 2014

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A nature reserve is to benefit from the arrival of 20 sheep.

Seaford Town Council and Sussex Wildlife Trust confirmed sheep will graze on Seaford Head Local Nature Reserve and follow in the footsteps of the three cattle which up until recently were grazing another area of the site.

A spokesman said the cattle have made a notable difference to the site.

The sheep have been introduced on to the reserve as part of the management plan commissioned by Seaford Head Local Nature Reserve Committee.

The plan was commissioned by the committee to provide a guide on the best possible management for the nature reserve over the next five years – 2013 to 2017.

A spokesman said: “The site is degrading due to overgrazing in some areas and a lack of grazing in other areas. Sussex Wildlife Trust took over the management of the 83 hectare site for Seaford Town Council at the beginning of June 2013. Co-ordinating the conservation work at Seaford Head is the trust’s assistant reserves officer Sarah Quantrill.

“There are 20 Herdwick sheep which will graze the area for a few months to help control the vegetation. There is temporary electric fencing around the area. The sheep are checked regularly.

“Please report any problems to the grazier on 07884 496807. All dogs should be kept on a lead in the vicinity of the sheep.”

For more information on the reserve or information on joining one of the voluntary groups that help care for it and monitor livestock, call Sarah Quantrill on 01273 492 630 or 07824 151 935.